Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is an automatic fire sprinkler system?

The automatic fire sprinkler system is the most widely used fire protection system today. The whole philosophy of sprinklers is based upon the premise of applying the right amount of water (as little as possible) in the right place (the seat of the fire) at the right time (as quickly as possible). Many ordinary hazard systems used to be fed directly from the town's mains, but increasingly a water tank and pumps are being installed to guarantee adequate water flow and pressure.

Types of fire sprinkler systems:

WET

DRY

PRE-ACTION

DELUGE

2. What is a WET fire sprinkler system?

The fire sprinkler system is constantly charged with water under pressure, which holds the fire sprinkler valve in the closed position. When a fire sprinkler is activated water instantly flows on to the fire.

A wet fire sprinkler system is commonly installed in areas where the ambient temperature is above 32 degrees F.

3. What is a DRY fire sprinkler system?

Used where a freezing risk may arise, the dry fire sprinkler system is constantly charged with compressed air, which holds the fire sprinkler valve in the closed position. When a fire sprinkler head is activated, the air pressure is lost, the valve opens and water flows into the system and on to the fire.

A dry fire sprinkler system is commonly installed in areas where the ambient temperature is at or below 32 degrees F.

4. What is a PRE-ACTION fire sprinkler system?

A combination of an electrical/mechanical detection system, charged with compressed air, sprinkler pipes are only filled with water upon electrical detection to avoid accidental water damage.

A pre-action fire sprinkler system is commonly installed in high-risk areas such as data processing facilities or cold storage warehouses.

5. What is a DELUGE fire sprinkler system?

A combination of an electrical/mechanical detection system, fire sprinkler heads are open and the pipe is not pressurized. When the detection system is activated water discharges through all of the sprinklers in the system.

A deluge fire sprinkler system is commonly installed in high-risk areas such as power plants, aircraft hangars, and chemical storage or processing facilities.

6. How are fire sprinklers rated?

Each fire sprinkler is rated for a certain temperature, depending on its application. For example, if a fire sprinkler is rated for 155 degrees, as soon as the surrounding temperature reaches 155 degrees the bulb will burst and thus engaging the fire sprinkler system.

7. How do I know my fire sprinkler system will work?

The laws set forth by your local fire department and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) protect you by requiring that all fire related systems are tested at regular intervals to insure proper operation of that system.

8. Does the fire sprinkler system need to be certified?

9. Should I have my fire sprinkler system tested?

YES. Your local fire department will notify you as to when and how often this should be done. The minimum testing would be annually and the maximum would be quarterly. Check with Crown Fire Systems, Inc. or your local Fire Department.